Searching for the most authentic Mount Kilimanjaro climbing tours in Tanzania? We are you’re whole tool and box and more for climbing Kilimanjaro Mountain. Mount Kilimanjaro is a stratovolcano located in the northern part of Tanzania, rising to an elevation of 5,895 meters above sea level, making it the highest mountain on the continent and the tallest freestanding mountain globally.
It is composed of three volcanic cones: Kibo, Shira, and Mawenzi, respectively. The origin of the name Kilimanjaro is not clear, but it is suspected to be a combination of the Swahili word “Kilima,” meaning mountain, and the Chagga word “Njaro,” meaning whiteness. Summiting Kilimanjaro means standing on top of Africa. Let’s make your dream come true. Check out some of our Kilimanjaro hiking tours below.
Ultimate Guide for Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania
Mount Kilimanjaro is situated in Africa's northeastern part, near the border of Kenya, within approximately 300 kilometers south of the equator.
It is positioned 160 kilometers east of the East African rift system, 280 kilometers from the Indian Ocean, 448 kilometers from Dar es Salaam, 225 kilometers from Nairobi, 81 kilometers from Arusha, and only 30 kilometers from Moshi.
Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking is undoubtedly the primary reason why travelers consider Kilimanjaro National Park safaris a must-do while on a Tanzanian safari.
Mount Kilimanjaro (5895m), approximately 19,340ft, is situated in the northern part of Tanzania in East Africa, close to the Kenyan border, and it is notably the tallest free-standing mountain in Africa and the highest on Earth.
Compared to most national parks in the northern part of Tanzania, visiting Mount Kilimanjaro National Park in Tanzania offers a unique opportunity to explore and experience the highest peaks on the African continent.
Kilimanjaro National Park derives its name from Mount Kilimanjaro.
This volcano is located within Kilimanjaro National Park, near the South Kenyan border, and it rises from farmlands, lush rainforests, to the snow-capped summits, offering exceptional views.
Mount Kilimanjaro is incredibly one of the most accessible tall mountains for hikers/climbers worldwide.
It is strategically located in an area with the most favorable climatic conditions, and climbers pass through five unique vegetation zones.
All it requires is proper preparation, suitable clothing, and a simple walking stick, and you can reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking can commence from any of the numerous routes, all leading to the summits.
Interestingly, trekking is ideal for physically fit hikers/trekkers on hiking safaris in Tanzania.
Cost of Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Trekking to the summits of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania comes at a cost.
The rates vary from US Dollars 1900 to 2400.
Fortunately, lucky trekkers can find incredible offers for as low as US Dollars 1200, depending on the local tour operator in Tanzania you deal with.
The cost of Trekking Mount Kilimanjaro includes several expenses, including conservation fees, which cost US Dollars 70 per day.
The total amount varies depending on the duration of your Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking safari.
The cost also covers camping or hut fees, which are US Dollars 60 or 50 per night, estimated to be approximately US Dollars 400 or US Dollars 350 for a 7-night stay.
Hiring a porter on your Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking safari is essential if you have heavy luggage, and porters are available for hire to assist you at only US Dollars 10 per day.
Additionally, there are cooks for hire at US Dollars 15 per day and guides at US Dollars 20 per day.
While on a Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking holiday in Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, you should also plan for rescue fees, which must be paid regardless of whether you require rescue or not.
Rescue fees amount to US Dollars 20 per trekker per trip.
It should be noted that the fees and charges, inclusive of all packages, vary according to the trekking routes chosen by visitors and the time spent on a particular route.
Other things to do in Kilimanjaro
The primary activity for trekkers on a Mount Kilimanjaro holiday is trekking/mountain climbing.
Enthusiastic climbers consider Mount Kilimanjaro a must-hike destination while on Tanzanian safaris.
Trekkers are always accompanied by licensed and experienced guides.
For those not yet familiar with Mount Kilimanjaro trekking, arranging your Mount Kilimanjaro hiking safari with a local tour operator in Tanzania is advisable.
Trekking to the summits of Mount Kilimanjaro is possible via any of the 6 routes.
These routes demand physical fitness, but with determination, completing the trek is possible.
Tents and huts are available from the base to the summits.
Additionally, there are nature trails to explore the lower slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Trekkers can also take the scenic Chala Crater Lake trail to explore and experience the extreme southern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.
The western slopes can be explored using the Lemosho route.
A game drive can be planned along this route to enjoy incredible views of Mount Kilimanjaro National Park's wildlife species, including elephants and buffaloes, view beautiful natural waterfalls, and spot a diverse range of bird species and monkeys, among others.
Along the western slopes, there is also the possibility of interacting with local residents, learning about their unique traditions and cultures, especially those of the Chagga tribe that lives along Mount Kilimanjaro's slopes.
Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes
Mount Kilimanjaro is a hiker's paradise with six different routes leading to its peak. They include:
1. The Lemosho Route
This trekking route takes hikers approximately 8 days to complete a round trip.
Remarkably, it is a rewarding route with comfortable accommodation options, mostly available in tents pitched on various campsites.
The Lemosho is noted for its success rate, estimated at about 94% for reaching Stella Point and 88% for reaching Uhuru Summit.
Accessing these points offers breathtaking views of the surrounding areas, distinct vegetation zones, and more.
2. The Machame Route
This route is trekked for 7 days and takes 6 nights. It is the most popular among trekkers and is frequently chosen during the peak season.
3. The Marangu Route
Also known as the Coca Cola route, this is the oldest route on Mount Kilimanjaro.
The Marangu route provides accommodation in the form of huts or dormitories.
4. The Northern Circuit Route
This is a 9-day, 8-night route on Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, East Africa.
Trekkers have ample time to acclimatize while trekking through this route.
Some trekkers complete the round trip in 8 days.
5. The Rongai Route
This is a 6-day trekking route leading to the summits of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.
It is known for its trekking success rate of 88% to Gilmans Point and 74% to Uhuru summit.
Trekkers enjoy stunning views from the northern part of Mt. Kilimanjaro and ample time to acclimatize.
6. The Shira Route
This route takes trekkers on an 8-day Mount Kilimanjaro hiking safari in Tanzania.
It has a success rate of 93% to Stella Point and 86% to the Uhuru summit.
The Shira route traverses the Shira plateaus, Lent hills, and Moir Hut.
It reaches close to Mount Kilimanjaro's peaks from the west, offering a less crowded trekking experience.
The Hardest Route for Hiking Kilimanjaro
Umbwe route - The Umbwe trail is the hardest yet shortest route for hiking Mount Kilimanjaro's summit.
The route requires trekkers with mountaineering experience, although it's non-technical.
The advantage of using the Umbwe route is that you get rewarded with some of the most panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, and you will also have the whole mountain to yourself because this trail is not crowded like other routes.
The Umbwe route is steep and the most direct to the mountain, exposing ridges and requiring trekkers to be in good physical shape because you will have to cling to tree branches and rocks at some point.
The success rate for reaching the summit using the Umbwe route is low compared to other routes because it's direct and short, therefore not allowing hikers to acclimatize, hence causing altitude sickness for most climbers.
See Umbwe Route climbing program below:
Day 1:
The climb using the Umbwe route starts from Umbwe park gate along the stunning Umbwe river and montane rainforests from 1600 meters elevation to 2900 meters elevation and camps at Umbwe cave camp.
The time taken for hiking is 6 hours, covering a distance of 11 kilometers.
Day 2:
Day two's climb starts from 2900 meters elevation to 3930 meters altitude, where you will spend a night at Barranco camp.
The 4 to 5-hour hike takes you through the remaining part of montane forests, the western breach, and the great Barranco.
You will cover a distance of only 6 kilometers on the second day.
Day 3:
On the third day, you scramble through the great Barranco wall to Karanga valley beneath Kersten, Decken, and Heim glaciers.
The hike takes 4 hours of traversing through alpine desert, and you will camp at Karanga camp for the night.
This is a shorter day meant for acclimatization.
Day 4:
On the fourth day, you trek to the junction of Mweka trail, traverse through a rocky area to Barafu hut, where you get superb views of the summit.
You will need to eat an early dinner and rest early because you will wake up for the summit at around 11 pm.
The fourth day's hike takes about 4 to 5 hours, covering a distance of 4 kilometers.
Day 5:
Day 5 is the most hectic day of the climb because you have to wake up at 11 pm to prepare for the summit hike that starts at midnight.
It can be extremely cold, and you have to trek using headlamps in the night.
By the time you reach Stella point, you will be rewarded with the most beautiful sunrise you have probably never seen.
At Uhuru peak, you will have a few minutes to observe the outstanding beauty of Africa's highest mountain and take photos.
You will then descend and stop over at Barafu hut for lunch before continuing to Mweka hut for the night.
This is the longest day you will have, with a summit hike taking 7 to 8 hours and descent taking 4 to 6 hours.
Day 6:
The sixth day will be your last day on the mountain.
You descend from Mweka hut to Mweka gate, covering 10 kilometers in 3 to 4 hours. At Mweka gate, you will receive summit certificates and have a celebration with your guides and porters before you depart to your hotel room or airport.
Don't forget to tip your porters and guides on this day.
The overall distance covered using the Umbwe route is 53 kilometers covered in 5 to 6 days, but it's advisable to use the 6-day option to allow your body to adapt to altitude.
The Easiest Hiking Routes for Kilimanjaro Hiking
Over 30,000 tourists attempt to climb Mount Kilimanjaro every year, and not all of them successfully reach the summit.
The main challenge is altitude sickness, which can affect just about anyone, regardless of age or fitness level.
Choosing the right route for hiking Mount Kilimanjaro will greatly contribute to a successful summit rate.
There are seven well-established routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, including Lemosho route, Rongai route, Marangu route, Machame route, Kilema route, Umbwe route, and Shira route.
All these routes offer visitors unique and different experiences.
Some are harder to use, while others are easier, depending on the ability to acclimatize, the beauty of views, the level of difficulty, and the number of days.
We shall look at the easiest routes to reach the summit, the easiest to hike, and the best route for acclimatization because all these contribute to a successful summit rate on Mount Kilimanjaro.
Northern Circuit Route
The Northern Circuit Route is the longest route for hiking Mount Kilimanjaro, giving hikers a chance to acclimatize, therefore having a high success rate.
The disadvantage of the Northern Circuit is that it's more expensive compared to other routes because the more days you spend on the mountain, the more money you spend.
Lemosho Route
The Lemosho Route offers a good success rate when you use an 8-day option.
The ascents in Lemosho are short, and sleeping at lower altitudes makes it easy for most travelers to reach the summit.
The climb using Lemosho gets hard on the last two days, which may require some level of fitness.
Marangu Route
The Marangu Route can be considered one of the easiest routes for hiking Mount Kilimanjaro, especially for people who already live at higher altitudes and are less likely to be affected by altitude sickness.
The route takes only 5 days to ascend and descend, compared to other hiking routes that take longer.
Another advantage that makes Marangu one of the easiest routes is the comfortable arrangement where hikers sleep in comfortable dormitory huts not found on other routes where hikers sleep in tents throughout the hike.
If you have not been living at higher altitudes for some years, then the Marangu route is not for you.
Machame Route
The Machame Route, also known as the Whisky route, offers the best acclimatization because three of its campsites are located at the same altitude level.
It should be noted that acclimatization is a very important aspect on Mount Kilimanjaro.
As you climb higher, your body needs to adapt to new oxygen levels at higher altitudes, and this can be done by hiking high and sleeping low, which the Machame route offers.
However, if you are not physically fit and don't have past hiking experience, then you shouldn't use the Machame route because of its level of difficulty.
But the views on the route are also superb.
In conclusion, all routes on Mount Kilimanjaro have their advantages and disadvantages.
You need to choose a route wisely to have a successful summit rate based on your fitness level, ability to acclimatize, and the level of difficulty while hiking.
Rongai Route
The Rongai Route is also considered one of the easiest routes for hiking Mount Kilimanjaro as it offers easy acclimatization.
Although the hike is not scenic, it descends via the Marangu route, giving hikers an opportunity to view the mountain from different angles.
Altitude Sickness and Acclimatization on Mount Kilimanjaro
Trekking to the summits of Mt. Kilimanjaro requires physical fitness due to the challenging altitude.
There is a higher chance of encountering altitude sickness and, in some cases, Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
AMS is associated with high elevation pulmonary edema (HAPE) and high altitude cerebral edema (HACE).
Altitude acclimatization is essential for a successful round trip on a Mount Kilimanjaro trekking experience.
Acclimatization relates to the level of oxygen in the air, elevation change, and how your body copes with it.
As you trek higher, less oxygen is available.
To acclimatize to the reduced oxygen levels, it is advisable to trek slowly and avoid rushing.
If you experience symptoms like continuous headaches, nosebleeds, or dizziness, inform your guide so that they can plan your route to lower elevations until the symptoms subside.
In severe cases, immediate evacuation may be necessary.
Therefore, before embarking on a trek, it is essential to practice trekking and hiking at similar altitudes to acclimatize to steep slopes.
Best time to Climb Kilimanjaro Mountain
Kilimanjaro Summit View
Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking safaris in Tanzania can be arranged all year round.
However, December, January, and February are the best months due to drier and warmer conditions, making trekking through Mount Kilimanjaro enjoyable.
Heavy rains occur in April, May, and November, along with colder conditions.
Mount Kilimanjaro lies near the Equator and does not experience extreme winter/summer conditions.
It has moderately normal wet and dry seasons, like most parts of Africa. Trekkers prefer visiting Mount Kilimanjaro, especially during the dry months of January, February, and September.
During the dry months, most routes remain clear with low or no rainfall, providing an enjoyable trekking journey for trekkers on Mount Kilimanjaro hiking safaris.
The rainy months of April, May, and early August are generally avoided by most hikers due to heavy rains and associated challenges that make it difficult to navigate to the summits of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Combining Mt. Kilimanjaro Trekking with the Northern Circuit Safari in Tanzania
Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
In terms of Tanzania safaris, specific parks are explored for particular reasons or interests.
The Northern Tanzania safari circuit is exceptional for ultimate African safari experiences.
Most travelers visit this area primarily to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti National Park, which is part of the Northern Tanzania safari circuit.
Additionally, the circuit is ideal for observing the big five game, canoeing, bird-watching, viewing the tree-climbing lions (found in Lake Manyara National Park), and more.
The Northern Tanzania safari circuit is home to Africa's tallest mountain, Mt. Kilimanjaro, and the wildebeest in Serengeti National Park.
Exploring the Northern Tanzania safari circuit is a great opportunity to also discover the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater, its wildlife, including rare black rhinos, and learn about the human evolution footprints dating back 3.6 million years in remarkable archaeological sites like Olduvai Gorge.
Can a Beginner hike Kilimanjaro Mountain?
Yes, beginners can climb Mount Kilimanjaro because it's a walk-up mountain that even people without experience can ascend without any technical equipment required.
However, even beginners can successfully climb Mount Kilimanjaro; the main challenge that almost 50% of hikers face is altitude sickness.
As a beginner trekking Mount Kilimanjaro, you should look for an experienced and knowledgeable tourist guide to help you climb the mountain. Having the right guide will make your climb easier and more memorable.
Beginners planning to hike Mount Kilimanjaro must also choose one of the longest routes used to climb the mountain in order to acclimatize well and adapt to altitude changes.
There are seven main routes established for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro that take between 5 to 9 days to reach the summit and descend.
The Kilimanjaro hiking routes include Lemosho route, Machame route, Marangu route, Umbwe route, Rongai route, Northern circuit route, and others.
Beginner hikers on Mount Kilimanjaro must also pack the right gear to have a successful climb.
If you're buying new hiking boots, make sure to try them for a walk or hike before using them on Mount Kilimanjaro.
Some of the things you will need include waterproof hiking boots, plenty of drinking water, garden gloves, raincoats, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellents, long-sleeved clothing, energy-giving snacks, trekking poles, socks, and many others.
Some companies may provide items like tents and sleeping bags, so make sure to check with the tour company you will be using to know what you can carry.
It's advisable for beginners to book a professional and trusted tour operator with summit rates of over 50% if you want to have a successful summit climb.
Local tour operators like us have certified tour guides well-versed with the terrain and environment, whose priority is to ensure your safety and enjoyment during the journey on Mount Kilimanjaro.
One of the things that beginners should consider is the best time for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.
Although the mountain can be accessed all year round, the most suitable time for climbing is during the dry seasons of June to August and December to February when the trekking conditions are favorable, making it easy to traverse the trails.
The weather is clear, providing breathtaking views during the dry seasons, and the vegetation is also not as thick, making it easier to spot wildlife and birds.
The rainy seasons can be messy, with trails being muddy and slippery, and rain can fall anytime during the hike, making the climb uncomfortable.
One of the best ways for beginners to prepare to conquer the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro is by training themselves to acclimatize before the actual trek.
This can be done by hiking on other hills or trekking on nearby Mount Meru, located 60 kilometers from Kilimanjaro.
Another important thing to do while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is to stay hydrated as much as possible during the hike and while resting in the evening.
As a beginner, you not only need to be in good shape and have the right gear to hike Mount Kilimanjaro, but you also need to watch out for any symptoms of altitude sickness, which is the major obstacle that prevents many climbers from reaching the summit.
Knowing when your body can't go on anymore is mandatory to avoid complications of mountain sickness.
While climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, you will often hear a local word, “pole pole,” which translates to “slowly slowly.”
You should always move at your own comfortable pace and not get pressured by groups ahead of you or behind.
Your guide will always move at your pace to ensure you're not fatigued and acclimatizing well.
Always take breaks and rest before picking up again, and this is especially important when approaching the summit when the air gets thinner.
Children, elderly people, and disabled people have been able to trek Kilimanjaro's summit, so even a beginner can make it to the summit of Africa's highest mountain.
All you need to do is engage in training, especially hiking hills, walking long distances daily, or climbing Mount Meru before hiking Kilimanjaro.
Training prior to your hike will make it easier and more comfortable for you to reach the summit.
Always inform your guide if you're feeling unwell so that they can decide whether you should continue the hike or descend for medical treatment.
Climbing Kilimanjaro for Charity
Some tour operators organize hikes to Kilimanjaro with the aim of contributing to and supporting local communities.
They donate 100% of the profits made from each climb.
If you're interested in climbing for charity to help support local communities, you should look for genuine charity-based tour operators to book with.
Alternatively, travelers can start a fundraising campaign online on GoFundMe and promote it on social media, where people can make contributions.
Climbing Kilimanjaro for charity requires proper planning and time, at least one year before the actual climb.
Climbing Kilimanjaro for charity is a good way to achieve your dreams and bring hope to their world.
Most charity organizations will give you a chance to visit their charity-based organization projects and meet the people they normally support through charity in the community.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for charity will motivate hikers to persevere when things get tough on the mountain, except for cases of mountain sickness that cannot be avoided.
For a successful charity climb, hikers should choose longer hiking routes to increase their chances of success.
The best time for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for charity is during the drier months of June to September and December to February when the hiking trails are in good condition, making it easier to trek from the base to the summit without disruptions due to weather changes.
The drier months also provide spectacular views as the skies are clear, making it ideal for photography.
Hikers must bring along sunscreen, insect repellents, waterproof hiking boots, garden gloves, plenty of drinking water, energy snacks, sunglasses, hats, headlamps, and other necessary items needed during the climb.
Hikers planning to hike Mount Kilimanjaro for charity should always do a background check on the tour companies they intend to book with to ensure that their funds are directed toward charity work within the local communities.
Ecology - The Unique Mt. Kilimanjaro Vegetation Zones
Mount Kilimanjaro is undoubtedly one of the inactive volcanoes on Earth and harbors unique vegetation zones ranging from moorland to highland zones on its three amazing peaks: Shira Plateau, Mawenzi, and Kibo peaks.
This is one remarkable aspect of the exceptional landscape of Mount Kilimanjaro, and incredibly, its vegetation provides a home for various faunal and floral species.
The lower slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro, dominated by evergreen rain-forests, especially at elevations around 3000m.
Arid and rocky landscapes are found at elevations around 4000m.
As you ascend to the summits, Mt. Kilimanjaro is mainly snow-capped, with huge glaciers and ice caps spread between crater lakes and peaks.
The Alpine zone ranges from 4000-5000m, with glaciers at 5000m, while the heath and moorland exist at 2800m.
Mount Kilimanjaro also shelters common forest trees such as hagenia, yellowwood podocarpus, macaranga, and others.
Are there Snakes on Kilimanjaro Mountain?
Most people ask if there are snakes on Mount Kilimanjaro, and, of course, Mount Kilimanjaro is made up of five different climatic zones, some of which are a habitat for snakes.
Snakes can be found in the bushland and forest zones of Mount Kilimanjaro, while high-altitude areas do not support animal life due to harsh weather conditions.
Therefore, there is no need for panic or fear because, even though they may be present, sightings are extremely rare.
It should be noted that thousands of tourists attempt to hike Mount Kilimanjaro annually using the same trails.
Snakes, on the other hand, are very sensitive to any movements and, therefore, try to stay far away from hiking trails.
In fact, most guides and porters who often climb the mountain have never encountered snakes on their trips.
Over 50 types of snakes have been recorded around the slopes of the Mount Kilimanjaro area.
Some of the dangerous species recorded include the green mamba, puff adder, eastern vine snake, boomslang, gaboon viper, twig snake, and brown forest cobra.
The montane forest area of Mount Kilimanjaro supports a habitat for 154 species of mammals and seven species of primates.
Other animals you're likely to encounter during your hike, although animal sightings are rare compared to other Tanzanian national parks due to thick vegetation, include forest elephants, African cape buffalos, blue monkeys, colobus monkeys, bush babies, four-striped mice, Jackson's chameleon, giraffes, common elands, serval cats, klipspringers, honey badgers, tree hyraxes, red and grey duikers, mountain reedbucks, porcupines, mongooses, bushbucks, aardvarks, olive baboons, hyenas, and leopards, among others.
Mount Kilimanjaro is also home to 179 species of birds recorded, and some examples include the great egret, purple heron, African sacred ibis, long-tailed cormorant, African darter, water thick-knee, white-fronted plover, spur-winged lapwing, greater painted snipe, black-tailed godwit, quail plover, common ostrich, white-faced whistling dove, northern pintail, helmeted Guinea fowl, crested francolin, little grebe, speckled pigeon, red-eyed dove, chestnut-bellied sandgrouse, sombre nightjar, scarce swift, white-browed coucal, and African emerald cuckoo, among others.
In conclusion, snakes are present in some parts of Mount Kilimanjaro but do not pose a threat to hikers since they avoid getting on the hiking trails and campsites.
How do you train for Kilimanjaro
The summit night on Mount Kilimanjaro involves trekking for over 12 hours, followed by a descent to a camp where you will spend the night.
Climbing the mountain can be quite expensive, so you wouldn't want to waste your money by failing to reach the summit.
It's crucial to prepare yourself adequately before attempting to climb Mount Kilimanjaro to ensure a successful summit climb.
While Mount Kilimanjaro is considered a walk-up mountain that can be trekked by both experienced and first-time mountaineers, proper training is still necessary to make your trek easier and more comfortable.
Here are some ways to prepare for your Kilimanjaro climb:
Hiking
Mental Preparation
Camping
Cardio Exercises
Altitude Simulators
Walking
Warm-Up
Sets and Repetitions
Trekking Shoes
Eat Healthy
Medical Check-Up
By following these preparation steps, you'll increase your chances of having a successful summit climb on Mount Kilimanjaro and make the most of your investment in this memorable adventure.
How fit do you need to be to climb mount Kilimanjaro
Unlike other high mountains that require technical equipment, physical fitness, and experience, Mount Kilimanjaro is easy to trek, and even first-time mountaineers can successfully reach the summit and return.
While you don't need to be exceptionally physically fit to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, this doesn't mean you should underestimate the importance of being in good shape when planning your hike.
Travelers intending to climb the mountain can prepare themselves to make the trekking experience easier.
Hiking hills, walking long distances, and cycling are excellent exercises to get you ready for the long Kilimanjaro trek.
Each day, you'll be trekking for 4 to 7 hours for about 5 to 9 days, depending on the route you choose.
It's worth noting that even children and elderly people have successfully reached the top of Mount Kilimanjaro.
The unique shape of Mount Kilimanjaro can make climbers more susceptible to altitude sickness.
The primary challenge when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is altitude sickness, which can affect anyone, regardless of their health and physical fitness.
The best way to try to prevent altitude sickness is by going slowly and steadily each day, at your own pace, even if the group leaves you behind.
Moving slowly helps with acclimatization to the altitude.
Some of the Mount Kilimanjaro routes can be quite long.
The most strenuous day while hiking Kilimanjaro is the summit day.
There is limited time for acclimatization, and many people experience mild symptoms of mountain sickness.
If the symptoms become severe, it's not advisable to continue the ascent.
The summit ascent usually starts around midnight, taking about 6 to 8 hours.
The views at the summit are incredibly rewarding and outstanding, but you will need to start the descent, which can take about 4 to 6 hours.
In conclusion, you don't need to be exceptionally physically fit to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, but training before the hike will make your trek more comfortable, provided you can acclimatize well to the altitude.
How hard is climbing Mount Kilimanjaro
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is somewhat challenging but very manageable.
Tourists may need some preparation before attempting to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, which can be done by acclimatizing with Mount Meru, located 70 kilometers from Mount Kilimanjaro.
Tourists can also train on any other mountains or hills near their location.
The biggest challenge most climbers face while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is acclimatizing to thinner air as they ascend to the summit.
This can be a challenge for anyone, no matter how fit or well-trained they are; anyone can easily succumb to mountain sickness.
There is about 49% less oxygen at Mount Kilimanjaro's summit compared to the usual oxygen levels your body is used to.
Always watch out for symptoms of altitude sickness like elevated blood pressure, heavy and fast breathing even while resting, constant headache, fatigue, higher pulse rate, and difficulty sleeping.
The best thing tourists can do to deal with expected mountain sickness is to engage in acclimatization hikes or climbs before attempting Mount Kilimanjaro.
Some people use altitude simulators to prepare for the climb.
It's also advisable for people intending to climb Mount Kilimanjaro to consult with their healthcare professionals before the climb to ensure they are in good physical shape and proper health.
Tourists intending to climb Mount Kilimanjaro need to arrive in Tanzania a day or two before the actual climb.
Those interested in starting with Mount Meru can arrive a few days earlier.
Getting enough rest and adjusting to the environment and time difference is essential before the actual climb.
Sometimes, unpredictable weather changes can make climbing Mount Kilimanjaro difficult.
You need to come prepared to adapt to weather changes.
If you're not used to sleeping in tents, the climb might also be a little challenging because you will have to sleep in tents, except if you choose some routes where you can sleep in huts.
Considering an electrolyte additive during the climb can be advantageous, and don't forget to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
No matter how fit or experienced you are, take your time during the climb.
Eating a lot of carbohydrates during the climb also helps with blood oxygenation.
Having a flexible, knowledgeable, and experienced guide will make your climb much easier.
Tourists can also hire porters at an affordable price to help carry luggage, which makes the climb easier.
The climb to Mount Kilimanjaro's summit and the descent takes between 5 to 9 days, depending on the route or phase of the hike.
In conclusion, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is easier and worth it compared to most mountains in the world.
The more time you spend on the mountain, the more likely you will have a successful climb.
How long does it take to walk up to Kilimanjaro
Uhuru Peak, Tanzania
The good news about climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is that it's a walk-up mountain, meaning there is no technical experience needed for one to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
The only challenge most people will face during the hike is altitude sickness.
Walking up Mount Kilimanjaro takes between 5 to 9 days to reach the summit and descend back.
The time taken to walk or hike will depend on the hiker's pace, route, and fitness.
People who usually want to walk up Mount Kilimanjaro within a few days are at risk of getting altitude sickness.
But the more days you spend climbing the mountain, the better the chances of reaching the summit because your body will be able to acclimatize.
It takes travelers two days to descend Mount Kilimanjaro from Uhuru peak to the finishing point.
How to hike Kilimanjaro on budget
Much as you can hike Mount Kilimanjaro on a budget, there is a lot to consider while choosing a budget safari, but your safety should be your top priority because sometimes cheap can become very expensive.
There is no need to pay a lot of money to make your dream come true only to fail to reach the summit because you made wrong decisions.
Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro is quite expensive because you have to pay a park entry fee per day, buy your own food, hire hiking gear if needed, pay for guides, cooks, porters, pay rescue fees, and so much more.
There is no way of making the trip completely cheap because it's a park rule not to climb the mountain without a registered guide, and it's also a must to acquire a permit before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, but trekkers can make some adjustments in some areas to reduce the cost and climb Mount Kilimanjaro on a budget.
See some of the adjustments below.
Carry your own gear
Book a group tour
Choose a short route
Choose a company wisely
Book budget and affordable accommodation
Opt for a day hike
12 Essential Kilimanjaro Hiking Tips
Although climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is not as challenging as most mountains in the world, tourists will need some tips before embarking on the climb to help them have a successful experience. Some of these tips are explained below:
Choose the Best Route: One of the most important tips for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is choosing the best route for your climb. There are seven routes for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, each with its own characteristics. Do research on these routes and select the one that suits you best before starting the climb.
Physical Preparation: Regardless of your fitness level and experience, physical preparation is essential for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Try to acclimatize months or weeks before the actual climb. This helps your body prepare for the extended climb, which usually takes between 5 to 9 days.
Don't Rush: You will often hear the Swahili phrase “Pole pole” during your Kilimanjaro climb, which means “slowly slowly.” No matter how fit you are, never rush while climbing the mountain, even if your group is ahead of you. This is crucial for avoiding altitude sickness.
Carry Medication: Altitude sickness is a major challenge when climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. While you can't predict or completely avoid it, it's best to be prepared for emergencies. Watch out for symptoms of altitude sickness, and consult your doctor before the climb to get the right medication.
Pack the Right Gear: Double-check your packing list before embarking on your Mount Kilimanjaro climb. Having the wrong hiking boots, for example, can ruin your experience. Make sure to try out new gear, such as boots, before bringing them to Kilimanjaro. Other essential items include sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, hats, plenty of drinking water, energy snacks, and raincoats.
Tip Your Crew: Your climb's success often depends on the support of guides, rangers, porters, and cooks who assist you during the journey. While tipping is not mandatory, it's a way to show appreciation. Tipping is usually done after descending, and the amount can vary.
Choose Experienced Guides: The guide you choose significantly impacts your Kilimanjaro summit. Opt for an experienced, knowledgeable guide to trek with you.
Select the Right Tents: Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro involves sleeping in tents most nights, except on certain routes. Ensure you have the correct outdoor tent to stay comfortable and get adequate rest for acclimatization.
Carry Oxygen Bottles: It's advisable for every group climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to carry oxygen bottles, as oxygen levels decrease significantly at higher altitudes. This can help in case of severe altitude sickness caused by low oxygen.
Stay Hydrated: Hydration is crucial while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. You're likely to consume over 3 liters of water a day, so start getting used to this intake weeks before your climb.
Bring Extra Batteries or a Power Bank: Capture the beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro by bringing extra camera batteries or a power bank to keep your devices charged.
Know the Best Time to Climb: Knowing the best time for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is important for a comfortable and memorable experience. The drier months of June to August and December to February offer favorable hiking conditions.
By following these tips, you can enhance your chances of having a successful and enjoyable climb on Mount Kilimanjaro.
What to carry - Kilimanjaro Packing List
Packing for a Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking adventure is an essential part of preparing and planning for your successful hiking holiday in Tanzania.
The clothing you choose to carry matters a lot when it comes to Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking holidays.
Every trekker on a Mount Kilimanjaro safari must have solid hiking shoes/boots, waterproof clothing, a hat, gloves, a walking stick, a camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a sleeping bag.
Health essentials include yellow fever vaccination cards or a visit to a physician to address related issues like malaria and acute mountain sickness, as you will be spending many days trekking at high elevations.
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park
Kilimanjaro National Park Tanzania is one of the popular parks in East Africa and takes its name from Mount Kilimanjaro.
It is an adventure paradise in Tanzania, East Africa. Kilimanjaro National Park was founded in 1973 after being upgraded from a game reserve.
It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 and covers a land area of 1668 sq. km. Kilimanjaro National Park is located on the northern side of Tanzania and is situated near the equator.
Wildlife - Kilimanjaro National Park is home to a significant population of wildlife, including cape buffaloes, elephants, antelopes, hyraxes, blue monkeys, bush babies, western black and white colobus monkeys.
Kilimanjaro National Park also protects tree frogs, Jackson's three-horned chameleon, two-horned chameleons, and butterfly species.
There are also over 170 bird species, including migratory bird species from Southern Europe and North Africa.
These include the long-tailed trogon, blue-napped mousebird, African fish eagles, resident black-shouldered kite, raven, African fish eagle, Gabar goshawk, gray hornbill, yellow-billed, common bulbul, Rüppell's robin-chat, and white-cheeked barbet.
Aside from hiking, Kilimanjaro National Park is also ideal for game viewing or safari game drives.
This offers Kilimanjaro National Park safari holidaymakers a chance to observe diverse wildlife species, including warthogs, elephants, cheetahs, jackals, leopards, duikers, gazelles, and numerous bird species.
Birding in Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro National Park is perfect for identifying diverse bird species, including African pygmy kingfishers, resident black-shouldered kites, African fish eagles, white-cheeked barbets, migratory avifaunal species, long-tailed trogons, white-necked ravens, blue-napped mousebirds, and Gabar Goshawks.
Cycling/Mountain Biking in Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro National Park is one of the best places in East Africa to enjoy classic and unforgettable mountain biking or cycling experiences.
The park comprises three stations where cycling begins.
Nature Walks & Hikes
Enjoyable in the different trails in Kilimanjaro National Park, each introduces you to the park's diverse species of wildlife and birds.
On a nature walk, you may encounter diverse species such as baboons, red-tailed monkeys, other mammals, colobus monkeys, and birds like blue-napped mousebirds, long-tailed trogons, African fish eagles, white-cheeked ravens, and others.
Camping in Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro National Park is undoubtedly one of the best camping destinations.
The park boasts 32 camping sites, each offering a close interaction between holidaymakers and nature.
Filming & Photography
Kilimanjaro National Park Tanzania is renowned for providing an amazing backdrop for filming.
Enjoy incredible panoramic views, and some of the best films have been shot in this park, winning world awards.
Where to Stay - Kilimanjaro Accommodation Options
Kilimanjaro National Park Tanzania offers a wide range of lodging or accommodation choices.
The park consists of accommodation options such as Snowcap Cottages, Panama Garden Resort, Salinero Hotel, Kilimanjaro Mountain Resort, Mount Kilimanjaro View Lodge, and Ndarakwai Ranch.
Getting To Mount Kilimanjaro
Treks to Mount Kilimanjaro commence from Moshi/Arusha, which is 45 kilometers away from Kilimanjaro International Airport.
You can take direct flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport, where it takes about 1 hour to drive to the starting point with the briefing.
There are also several domestic flights from Nairobi Airport in Kenya to Kilimanjaro Airport in Tanzania.
By road, ground travel can be organized, and a 4x4 safari vehicle is preferable for road trips.
You can be transferred from Nairobi Town/City in Kenya to Moshi/Arusha Town, which is 45 kilometers away.
Buses traveling from Nairobi arrive at Arusha/Moshi at 2 pm.
